In the current day and age, where environmental activism is at an all-time high, more and more people are questioning whether bottled water is a good choice. However, while the environment does play an important role there is a myriad of other factors to consider when choosing between bottled water and tap water. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of both bottled water and tap water. 

Safety

Due to the continuous increase in population and rapid industrialization, everyday drinking water quality is deteriorating in Pakistan. Tap water in Pakistan is considered unsafe for drinking and only about 20% of the entire population has access to safe drinking water. In 2017, over 83 percent of water in 14 of the 29 districts in Sindh was unsafe for drinking with Karachi scoring the highest in contamination at nearly 91 percent. The June 2018 Pakistan Council of Research for Water Resources (PCRWR) report attributed 45 percent of infant deaths in Pakistan to diarrhea and about 60 percent to overall infectious waterborne diseases in Pakistan.

There are two main sources of contamination the first being sewerage, which is discharged into the drinking water system supplies. The secondary source of pollution is the dumping of toxic chemicals from industrial effluents, pesticides, and fertilizers from agriculture sources into the water bodies. The subpar quality of drinking water has forced many citizens to buy bottled water. The Ministry of Science and Technology of Pakistan does a quarterly analysis of bottled water companies and ensures that only chemically tested safe brands are allowed to be sold. They require companies to process and transport bottled water under sanitary conditions and to use processes that ensure the safety of the water. Hence, as far as safety goes, it is hardly even a choice. 

Taste and Source

Many people prefer the taste of bottled water over boiled or filtered water. With bottled water, you have the choice of choosing between four types of water: artesian, mineral, spring, and sparkling. Each of these has its benefits. While spring water contains natural minerals and is considered healthier in comparison to other options, many choose artesian water because of its rich concentration of natural minerals or even sparkling water because of its bubbly taste and digestive properties. The most common in Pakistan, however, is mineral water, which is an effective solution for boosting your mineral intake. By choosing bottled water you can decide which one is the perfect choice for you and your family!